The PDC World Darts Championship at London's Alexandra Palace served up a dramatic mix of serene progress and explosive controversy on Sunday. While 2018 champion Rob Cross enjoyed a straightforward passage, the day was overshadowed by a furious accusation of gamesmanship from Joe Cullen.
Cross Cruises Past White with Ease
Rob Cross banished memories of a difficult year with a commanding 3-1 victory over veteran campaigner Ian White. The 2018 world champion, who has suffered several early exits in majors this season, produced an accomplished display to secure his spot in the third round after the Christmas break.
Cross was largely untroubled throughout the contest, demonstrating the quality that once made him a world title holder. The win guarantees him a return to the Ally Pally stage later in the tournament as he continues his quest for a second world crown.
Cullen's Fury: 'It's CHEATING!'
The calm of Cross's win was in stark contrast to the storm that erupted earlier in the day. Joe Cullen, the No 32 seed, launched a stunning verbal attack on opponent Mensur Suljovic following his 3-1 defeat.
Cullen took to social media platform X to vent his anger, specifically targeting Suljovic's notoriously slow playing style during the decisive final set. "If that's darts, I don't want no part of it!" he wrote. "Always liked Mensur away from the board but that was plain for all to see! I don't think I'm alone in feeling this way. The old guard will say it's part of the game but word it how you will – it's CHEATING! That's not darts."
When confronted with the allegations in his post-match press conference, Suljovic offered a brief and bemused response: "I don't know what his problem is."
Sunday's Other Results and Evening Preview
Elsewhere in the afternoon session, Krzysztof Ratajski secured his post-Christmas return with a 3-1 win over Ryan Joyce. Luke Woodhouse made light work of Max Hopp, sealing an emphatic 3-0 success.
The action continues on Sunday evening with a blockbuster line-up. Defending champion and world number one Luke Littler faces David Davies, while 2021 winner Gerwyn Price takes on Wesley Plaisier. Damon Heta meets Switzerland's Stefan Bellmont, who caused a first-round sensation by knocking out legendary five-time world champion Raymond van Barneveld.
